Effect of acupuncture on cognitive task performance of college students: a pilot study

Abstract

Objectives: Reduction in cognitive function of college students affects their academic recitation. Acupuncture is widely practiced for health promotion. Objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on cognitive task performance in college students.

Methods: Sixty students aged 18-25 years were randomly allocated into acupuncture group (AG) (n=30) and control group (CG) (n=30). The AG underwent 20 min of acupuncture/day, while the CG underwent their normal routine for 10 days. Assessments were performed before and after the intervention.

Results: Between-group analysis showed a significant increase in the six-letter cancellation test (SLCT) score in AG compared with CG. Within-group analysis showed a significant increase in the scores of all tests (i.e. SLCT, forward and backward Digit span test [DST]) in AG, while a significant increase in backward DST was observed in CG.

Conclusion: Acupuncture has a beneficial effect on improving the cognitive function of college students.

Keywords: acupuncture; cognition; college students; memory.